Lance Stroll focused on Formula 3 title despite F1 ambitions

Lance Stroll is looking to secure a future in Formula 1, but believes the route Max Verstappen to get to the pinnacle of single seater racing is not the way he will go about his career.

The Canadian, who is a development driver for the Williams Martini Racing team in 2016 after leaving the Ferrari Driver Academy, believes Verstappen’s rapid rise through the motorsport ranks should not be used as an example for young drivers, and instead is concentrating on his own career and making the step up when the time is right.

“We saw what Verstappen did it at a very young age,” Stroll said in the Toronto Star. “It shows that young drivers are capable.

“You see drivers who went in with potential who maybe took steps too quickly. Max settled in really well.

“I don’t want to use him as an example. He could be an exception. He’s obviously very good. But when the time is right, when I’m ready, when we complete all the steps, then we’ll make a decision.”

Stroll has revealed Williams want him to focus on winning the FIA European Formula 3 Championship in 2016, and is in a good position after a double victory last time out at the Red Bull Ring for his Prema Powerteam outfit.